Introduction
Nuclear physics is a vast branch of physics. It deals with the properties of an atomic nucleus, such as mass, charge, size, nucleons (neutrons and protons) and their binding energies, nuclear structure, bound and excited energy levels, spin states, interaction behaviour with gamma rays, with other particles, and with other nuclei, variation of such behaviour with energy and angle of interaction, the nuclear stability, radioactivity of excited and unexcited nucleus, decay half-lives, decay particles and their energies, nuclear transmutations, and so on. The aim of the subject is to understand the properties of the nuclei, both quantitatively and qualitatively. A variety of highly sophisticated nuclear physics experiments aid such an understanding. A detailed understanding needs quantum mechanical interpretations and advanced mathematics. A thorough understanding will facilitate exploitation of nuclear properties for the benefit of mankind. We present below some basic notions of nuclear physics, that help us appreciate the principles and mechanisms of nuclear-energy production.
It has been amply understood that substantial nuclear energy is released in breaking a heavy nucleus into lighter ones (known as fission) and in joining lighter nuclei together to form a heavier one (known as fusion). Which heavy nucleus to break? How to break it? Which light nuclei to fuse? How to fuse them? What are the arrangements and precautions needed? How to extract the energy released and make it available for human use? Is nuclear energy production economical, practicable and safe? Are there different options available? Such and many more questions arise. All such questions have to be answered satisfactorily before venturing into projects in nuclear energy production. However, the fundamental mechanism of nuclear energy production can be appreciated by going through the basic nuclear physics aspects that follow:
